Early puberty in children can restrict overall growth and trigger lasting psychological distress, according to Şervan Özalkak, a pediatric endocrinologist
Early puberty in children can restrict overall growth and trigger lasting psychological distress, according to Şervan Özalkak, a pediatric endocrinologist based in Diyarbakır.
Early development impacts emotional well-being
Girls under age 8 and boys under age 9 are entering puberty prematurely. Dr. Özalkak stated that early onset negatively affects childhood development, leaving young girls in particular facing acute stress and anxiety.
Adult height remains limited
Premature puberty accelerates physical growth early on. Bone structures mature too quickly, causing physical growth to stop prematurely. Dr. Özalkak noted that this dynamic directly limits final adult height.
Children face social bullying
Children whose bodies mature ahead of their emotional development encounter severe social challenges. Peers frequently target them with bullying. As a result, affected children isolate themselves and withdraw from social circles.
Five core factors drive early puberty
Childhood obesity and poor nutrition serve as primary triggers for early onset. Extended screen time and sedentary lifestyles further accelerate the process. Additionally, certain cosmetic products and non-seasonal foods disrupt natural hormonal balances. Dr. Özalkak urged families to monitor and manage childhood weight strictly.
Medication shortages disrupt treatment
Physicians rely on monthly or quarterly hormone-suppressing injections to manage the condition. Severe supply constraints plague local availability, as importing pharmaceutical companies limit shipments to the domestic market. Families struggle to secure consistent supplies, forcing many to interrupt critical treatment schedules prematurely.
